The Hike Hub | Gear Essentials Workshop

Dreaming of hiking more but feeling overwhelmed by all the gear options? Not sure what you actually need, what can wait, or where to spend your money wisely?

The Gear Essentials Workshop has been created for beginner hikers who want to start with confidence. Delivered collaboratively by Off The Beaten Track WA and Paddy Pallin, this engaging outdoor experience will equip you with the knowledge to choose, use and invest in the right gear for day hiking in Western Australia.

This is not a stuffy classroom session. Set at beautiful Ball Creek Campsite along the iconic Bibbulmun Track, you’ll learn through experience in a fun, practical and welcoming environment.

Across this five-hour experience, participants will complete a scenic 6km guided hike, with learning woven naturally throughout the day. We’ll break down the essentials versus the “nice to have”, helping you avoid common beginner mistakes and unnecessary purchases.

You’ll gain practical knowledge around footwear, packs, clothing systems, weather protection and safety basics, with expert guidance from a Paddy Pallin representative who will explain product differences, key features, what matters most and where to prioritise your budget.

We’ll also show you how to pack like a pro, including live demonstrations on pack setup, weight distribution and practical examples for real WA hiking conditions.

As part of the experience, enjoy a delicious morning tea plus a live cooking demonstration, where you’ll get the chance to taste test dehydrated hiking meals and nutritious trail snacks ideal for future adventures.

There’ll be plenty of time to ask questions, try gear, build confidence and connect with like-minded people looking to start their hiking journey.

We’re proud to support the Australian Conservation Foundation and their vital work to tackle climate change and protect Australia’s precious wildlife and ecosystems from the extinction crisis. Through advocacy, community action and practical solutions, they are helping create a healthier future for people and planet. As part of our Gear Essentials Workshop, 50% of every ticket sold will be donated directly to the Foundation, meaning every booking helps make a real impact beyond the trail.

Meeting Point:
Perth Hills Discovery Centre, Allen Rd, Mundaring. Please arrive 15mins early to ensure a prompt departure.

Includes: 

• 5-hour immersive outdoor workshop experience

• 6km guided hike at Ball Creek Campsite on the Bibbulmun Track

• Collaborative delivery by Off The Beaten Track WA and Paddy Pallin

• Learn on the trail, not in a classroom

• Practical gear education for beginner hikers

• Pack fitting and packing demonstrations

• Essential Gear for Day Hikes suggested kit list

• Live cooking demo with taste testing

• Morning tea included

• Exclusive special offers through Paddy Pallin

• Ongoing community discount voucher upon registration

What to Bring? 

• Backpack with 2-3L of water
• Camera
• Notepad & pen
• Personal first aid/medications
• Hat, sunscreen & insect repellent
• Sturdy hiking or walking shoes
• Raincoat & warm layer
• A sense of adventure & a big smile!
  

Terrain: Total hike distance is 6kms, the terrain is quite gentle, with only a few moderate inclines.

Off The Beaten Track WA is an award-winning, fully accredited Western Australian tourism business, delivering high-quality guided hiking and adventure experiences. Our trained Lead Guides and Support Guides are there to support you every step of the way, carrying two-way communication devices and a personal location beacon when mobile coverage is limited. Fully licensed and insured, we focus on creating safe, well-run and genuinely memorable experience out on the trail.